Nominal Relative Clauses: A Guide

Nominal relative clauses, also known as fused relative clauses, function as noun clauses and allow for more concise expression in English. These clauses combine a noun or pronoun with another pronoun into a single relative pronoun.

Common Relative Pronouns:

Typical pronouns used in nominal relative clauses include:

• what

• who

• when

• where

• how

• why

• whatever

• whoever

• whichever

Examples of Nominal Relative Clauses:

I know what I like. (The things which I like)

Whoever finishes first will win a prize. (The person who finishes first)

Usage in Sentences:

Nominal relative clauses can appear in either subject or object position within a sentence:

• Subject:

  • What you need is a good night’s sleep. (The thing which you need)

• Object:

  • She explained where we should meet. (The place where we should meet)

Infinitive Usage:

Some nominal relative pronouns can be followed by a to-infinitive:

He wondered what to say.

She demonstrated how to use the software.

Adding Emphasis:

In subject position, nominal relative clauses can be used for cleft structures, providing emphasis:

This is exactly what I’ve been looking for.

That’s precisely where we need to go.

Specific Phrases:

We often see nominal relative clauses following constructions such as:

• This/That/It + be + just/exactly/precisely.

It’s just what I wanted!

That’s exactly why we’re here.

Important Notes:

Avoid using ‘what’ in standard relative clauses.

• Incorrect: It’s a song what I wrote.

• Correct: It’s a song that I wrote.

Difference Between ‘Who’ and ‘Whoever’:

• Who we need is someone reliable. (specific person)

• Whoever applies first will get the job. (any person who applies)

Flexible Pronouns:

Pronouns like whoever, whatever, whenever, and whichever replace longer phrases:

Whatever you decide is fine with me.  (Anything that you decide)

Call me whenever you’re ready.  (Any time that you are ready)

Whichever option you choose will work.  (The option that you choose)

---

Key Takeaways

• Nominal relative clauses fuse a noun and pronoun into one relative pronoun.

• They can act as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.

• Typical pronouns include what, whoever, whichever, whatever, why, where, how, when.

• They are versatile and help to express ideas concisely.

By practising with these structures, you can enhance both your grammar and writing clarity.